There’s something magical about cherry pie bars. Picture this: a buttery, crumbly crust that melts in your mouth, topped with a luscious cherry filling that bursts with flavor and sweetness. Each bite is like a sweet hug, reminding you of summer picnics and grandma’s kitchen filled with the aroma of baked goodies. If you’re looking for an easy dessert that will make you feel like a pastry chef, these cherry pie bars are the answer to your cravings.
I remember the first time I made cherry pie bars for a potluck; my friends devoured them faster than I could say “cherries.” They were so good that I almost felt guilty taking credit. These bars are perfect for any gathering—whether it’s a picnic in the park or a cozy night in, their sweet allure will leave everyone begging for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The cherry pie bars are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for baking novices
- Their delightful combination of tart cherries and sugary crust creates an irresistible flavor profile
- Visually, they can brighten up any dessert table with their vibrant red hue
- Versatile enough to substitute different fruits, they can satisfy various taste preferences without skipping a beat
Every time I whip up these cherry pie bars, my family’s reactions are priceless—they practically fight over the last piece!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that perfect flaky crust; sift it well for best results.
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Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key; adjust according to your taste preference for the filling.
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Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps create a light and airy texture in your crust.
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Salt: Just a pinch enhances flavors and balances sweetness perfectly.
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Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for the crust to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
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Fresh or Canned Cherries: Choose ripe cherries if using fresh; canned works well too but drain them properly.
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Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the flavor of the cherries and adds zest to your filling.
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Cornstarch: Helps thicken the cherry mixture so it holds together beautifully when cut.
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Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to both crust and filling; use pure vanilla if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
**Prepare Your Workspace**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper. This makes removing your scrumptious bars easier later on.
**Make the Crust**: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut cold butter into small pieces and blend until it resembles coarse crumbs. Your dough should feel like sandy goodness under your fingers.
**Press It In**: Take about two-thirds of your mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Make sure it’s even—this will be your base for those sweet cherries.
**Create the Filling**: In another bowl, mix cherries (fresh or canned), lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should look gloriously juicy and fragrant.
**Spread It Out**: Pour the cherry filling over your pressed crust evenly—don’t be shy! Every inch deserves attention because who wants dry corners?
**Top It Off**: Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top of the cherries. It’s like giving your dessert a cozy blanket before baking!
**Bake Away**: Place in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen—try not to eat it all right then!
Let them cool completely before slicing into squares—this part takes patience but trust me, it’s worth every second spent waiting.
Enjoy making these cherry pie bars! You’ll find yourself wondering how you ever lived without them as you savor each delicious bite!
You Must Know
- Cherry pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic dessert
- The buttery crust and sweet cherry filling create an irresistible combination that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home
- With just the right balance of sweetness and tartness, they’re sure to impress
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Prepare the crust while it warms up, then layer your cherry filling before baking. This way, you maximize flavor while ensuring each element cooks evenly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different fruits like blueberries or peaches for a fresh twist. Adding almond extract can also elevate the flavor profile, making your cherry pie bars uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a warm oven for about 10 minutes to restore their delicious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure even baking, always use room temperature ingredients in your dough
- Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender; a light hand is key!
- Lastly, let them cool completely before slicing for clean edges and easier serving
The first time I made cherry pie bars, my friends devoured them in minutes! Their laughter echoed as they fought over the last piece—it felt like I was competing in a culinary Olympics!
FAQ
How can I make these cherry pie bars gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular all-purpose flour for great results.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in the recipe.
What can I serve with cherry pie bars?
A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with these sweet and tangy treats!
Cherry Pie Bars
Cherry pie bars are the ultimate dessert that combines a buttery, crumbly crust with a vibrant cherry filling that bursts with flavor. These easy-to-make bars evoke nostalgic memories of summer picnics and cozy gatherings. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, leaving everyone craving more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 2 cups fresh or canned cherries (drained if canned)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Press two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, combine cherries, lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla; pour over the crust.
- Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture on top and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow cooling completely before cutting into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
